Once a year, the dynamic relationship between Washington’s power and the press that covers it transforms into a highly publicized event known as the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. This tradition, which has been celebrated for over a century, involves setting aside notebooks and microphones at the door of the Hilton hotel to make room for an evening of camaraderie and networking. The event honors the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of the press in the United States, as well as the current president. President Joe Biden delivered a humorous speech filled with jokes about his age and his Republican opponent, Donald Trump.
Prior to the dinner, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Hilton to protest the war in Gaza and Washington’s support for Israel. Inside, nearly three thousand guests mingled in tuxedos and formal attire, while Biden avoided addressing the situation in the Middle East or his support for Benjamin Netanyahu in his speech. The only one to mention the journalists who had lost their lives in recent conflicts was NBC’s Kelly O’Donnell, the president of the Correspondents’ Association. O’Donnell also highlighted the plight of detained journalists like Evan Gershkovich and Austin Tice.
Biden used his speech to downplay concerns about his age and jab at Trump, who had avoided attending previous correspondents’ dinners while in office. Comedian Colin Jost provided a comedic response to Biden’s speech, poking fun at his age and making lighthearted jabs at other political figures and media outlets. The gala was attended by various celebrities and influencers, creating a lively atmosphere akin to the “Oscars of Washington.”
As the evening came to a close, attendees left the hotel for exclusive after-parties, while a few protesters continued to voice their objections outside. Biden and the First Lady departed amidst heightened security due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, underscoring the challenges he faces as a leader. Despite the festive atmosphere, the gala was a reminder of the complex intersection of power, politics, and media in Washington, D.C.